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Merrillville

Merrillville, Indiana, United States

Merrillville: Indiana's Hub of Hospitality and Hidden Gems Merrillville, Indiana, warmly welcomes you with open arms and Midwestern charm. Situated just south of Lake Michigan, this vibrant town offers a unique blend of …

#Suburban#Retail hub#Diverse community#Accessible transportation#Commercial developments

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Merrillville.

Top Hotels in Merrillville

Top Flights to Merrillville

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Merrillville.

Tours

Deep River Waterpark

A large waterpark offering numerous slides, a lazy river, and wave pool.

Shopping

Southlake Mall

A large shopping mall offering a variety of stores and dining options.

Outdoor

Indiana Dunes National Park

Explore the beautiful sandy beaches and diverse ecosystems along Lake Michigan.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Merrillville.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

39,000

Languages

English, Spanish

Average weather

Merrillville

Jan

-1°-8°

Feb

1°-6°

Mar

7°-2°

Apr

15°4°

May

21°10°

Jun

26°16°

Jul

29°18°

Aug

28°17°

Sep

24°13°

Oct

17°7°

Nov

9°1°

Dec

2°-5°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Merrillville.

What people love

Merrillville, Indiana, located in the United States, offers several advantages for travelers. Here are some pros of traveling to Merrillville:

Proximity to Major Cities: Merrillville is conveniently located near major cities such as Chicago, making it an ideal base for exploring the region. Visitors can easily drive to Chicago for a day trip to enjoy its attractions and cultural offerings.
Shopping and Dining: Merrillville is home to the Southlake Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in the region. Visitors can indulge in retail therapy at a variety of stores and boutiques. The town also boasts a diverse culinary scene, with restaurants offering a range of cuisines to suit every palate.
Outdoor Recreation: Nature enthusiasts will appreciate Merrillville's proximity to natural attractions such as the Indiana Dunes National Park and Lake Michigan. Outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and water sports are easily accessible from Merrillville.
Cultural Attractions: Merrillville is home to the Star Plaza Theatre, a popular entertainment venue that hosts a variety of concerts, shows, and events throughout the year. Visitors can catch a live performance and immerse themselves in the local arts scene.
Family-Friendly Activities: Merrillville offers a range of family-friendly activities, including amusement parks, museums, and recreational facilities. Families traveling with children will find plenty of options for entertainment and fun in the area.

Overall, traveling to Merrillville, Indiana, provides a blend of shopping, dining, outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and family-friendly activities, making it a versatile destination for a memorable trip.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Merrillville, Indiana, could include:

Limited public transportation: Merrillville is a suburban area with limited public transportation options. Renting a car may be necessary to get around efficiently.
Weather extremes: Indiana can experience extreme weather conditions, including hot summers and cold winters. Travelers should be prepared for weather fluctuations depending on the time of year they visit.
Limited tourist attractions: Merrillville is primarily a residential and commercial area, so there may be fewer traditional tourist attractions compared to larger cities. Travelers looking for a vibrant nightlife or cultural experiences may need to explore neighboring cities like Chicago.
Traffic congestion: Like many suburban areas, Merrillville can experience traffic congestion during peak commuting hours. Travelers should plan accordingly to avoid delays.
Distance from major airports: Merrillville is not located near a major airport, so travelers may need to factor in additional travel time to reach their destination.

Overall, while Merrillville offers a quiet suburban atmosphere, travelers looking for a bustling city experience or a wide range of tourist attractions may find the area lacking in comparison to other destinations.

Merrillville, Indiana, is a town located in Ross Township, Lake County. The area that is now Merrillville has a rich history that dates back centuries, with its origins rooted in Native American history and subsequent European settlement.

Early History

Native American Heritage: The area was originally inhabited by the Potawatomi tribe, who were part of the Algonquian-speaking peoples. They utilized the land for hunting and gathering, as well as for establishing trade routes.
Settlement and Development: The first non-indigenous settlers arrived in the area around the early 19th century. The land was part of a series of treaties that the U.S. government made with Native American tribes, which led to the eventual removal of the Potawatomi via the "Trail of Death" in 1838.

Formation and Growth

Ross Township: Established in 1848, the township was named after William Ross, a local pioneer. The area initially developed as an agricultural community.
The Founding of Merrillville: Originally known as McGwinn Village, it was later renamed Wiggins Point, named after a local landowner, Jeremiah Wiggins. The name Merrillville was adopted in 1876 in honor of brothers Dudley and William Merrill, who were influential in the area's development.

20th Century and Urbanization

Suburbanization: Post-World War II, Merrillville transitioned from a rural community to a more suburban environment as people moved away from industrial cities like Gary, Indiana. This led to significant residential and commercial development.
Incorporation Attempt: While Merrillville remains unincorporated, there have been attempts to incorporate it as a city. However, these efforts have not succeeded, and it remains governed as part of Ross Township.

Economic and Cultural Development

Business and Commerce: Merrillville has developed as a commercial hub in Northwest Indiana, with a strong retail presence, including the Southlake Mall, which opened in 1974. The town's economy is driven by retail, services, and light manufacturing.
Educational Institutions: Merrillville is home to several educational institutions and is served by the Merrillville Community School Corporation.

Significant Landmarks

Albanese Candy Factory: Known for its gummy bears and chocolates, it is a popular attraction for both visitors and locals.
Hidden Lake Park: A popular recreational area offering various outdoor activities, including fishing, picnicking, and walking trails.
Star Plaza Theatre (formerly): Although it was demolished in 2018, it was once a famous entertainment venue that hosted numerous concerts and events.

Notable Figures

Dudley and William Merrill: Early settlers and entrepreneurs after whom the town is named. They contributed significantly to the area's early development.

Modern Merrillville

Today, Merrillville is a vibrant suburban community known for its diverse population and economic activities. It continues to grow as a residential and commercial center in Lake County.

This overview provides a snapshot of Merrillville's history, which, while not exhaustive, highlights the town's development from its early days to its current status.